Signer Identification Procedures Flashcards

Under New Mexico's Revised Uniform Law on Notarial Acts, which of the following is an acceptable way to identify a signer?

Answer: Personal knowledge of the individual

New Mexico law allows identification by personal knowledge, satisfactory evidence from an ID document, or a credible witness.

A signer presents a driver's license that expired two years ago. Under New Mexico law, may the notary accept it?

Answer: Yes, because an ID expired no more than three years is acceptable

New Mexico permits a government-issued ID that is current or expired not more than three years before the notarial act.

What must a credible witness do before vouching for a signer's identity in New Mexico?

Answer: Take an oath or affirmation verifying the signer's identity

A credible witness must verify the signer's identity under oath or affirmation administered by the notary.

Which document is generally acceptable as satisfactory evidence of identity even though it lacks a physical description?

Answer: A current passport issued by the U.S. government

A passport is an acceptable government-issued ID because it contains a photograph and signature, even without a physical description.

A notary's neighbor of fifteen years asks for a notarization but forgot her wallet. What may the notary do?

Answer: Proceed using personal knowledge of the signer's identity

Personal knowledge from long-standing acquaintance is a lawful basis for identifying a signer in New Mexico.

Which of these is NOT satisfactory evidence of identity under New Mexico notary law?

Answer: A signed personal letter describing the signer

A personal letter is not a government-issued identification document and cannot serve as satisfactory evidence.

Why is a Social Security card unacceptable for identifying a signer?

Answer: It lacks a photograph and physical description

A Social Security card has no photograph, signature, or physical description, so it cannot verify identity.